The best sunscreens to buy in Beijing

SunPlay Watery Cool Sunscreen

SPFs available 28, 30, 65, 75

UVA protection? Yes

Water resistant? No

How much 89.90RMB/150ml (spray)

Verdict Why didn’t anyone think of this before? Infused with menthol for a nicely cooling effect on hot, sweaty skin, the spray version is particularly refreshing, with a light, non-greasy consistency. Our only complaint is the slightly antiseptic smell. Best for Keeping cool

Find it Watsons, various locations

2/7

Bioré Mild Care Milk

SPFs available25

UVA protection? Yes

Water resistant? No

How much 65RMB/140g (lotion)

Verdict This super mild sunscreen can be used both by adults and children. It does not contain any alcohol, added scent or pigment, therefore it will be a perfect product for daily outdoor activities. Its moisturizing feature also makes it a good foundation for make-up.

Best for Adults and kids

Find it Watsons, various locations

3/7

Inoherb Watery Sun-Block Gel

SPFs available 30

UVA protection? Yes

Water resistant? No

How much 79RMB/50g (lotion)

Verdict Like other Inoherb products, this light, non-greasy sunscreen contains herbs that calms the skin while offering protection. Its small size also makes it easy to carry around. Best for Everyday use.

Find it Watsons, various locations

4/7

Watsons Sun Protection Body Lotion

SPFs available 14, 30

UVA protection? Yes

Water resistant? No

How much 69.9RMB/90mL

Verdict With a pleasant, unobtrusive scent, creamy texture, and decent staying power, this is a good, readily available option for the price. Unlike many of the alternatives we trialled, though, the formula isn’t oil-free and could clog pores, so it’s best to avoid using on the face.

Best for Budget protection

Find it Watsons

5/7

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunblock

SPFs available 30

UVA protection? Yes

Water resistant? Yes

How much 119RMB/141g (lotion); 179RMB/88ml (spray)

Verdict This state of the art sunscreen regularly tops best sunscreen polls and we can see why: it’s ultra-light, non-scented and has none of that greasy residue you associate with sunscreen, so can be used on the face without fear of breakouts. Like all Neutrogena products it’s dermatologically tested, so won’t clog pores.

Best for Sensitive or problem skin

Find it Watsons, various locations

6/7

Nivea Sun Invisible Protection Transparent Spray

SPFs available 30

UVA protection? Yes

Water resistant? Yes

How much 70.10RMB/150ml

Verdict We were thrilled to discover the regular (non-whitening) version of Nivea’s sunscreen costing just a little more than you’d pay back home. The transparent spray goes on with a dry-touch finish so you can hardly tell you’re wearing it, and stays on for ages, even surviving repeated dips in the pool.

Best for Water-based sports

Find it Watsons, various locations

7/7

Watercome The Vanishing Water

SPFs available 28

UVA protection? Yes

Water resistant? No

How much 79.00RMB/60ml

Verdict This sunscreen contains both purified SPA essence and hydrating complex factors that helps keep the skin fresh and clean.